OET Preparation Course
The Occupational English Test (OET) is designed for healthcare professionals who plan to work or study in English-speaking countries. Unlike general English tests, OET focuses on communication skills used in healthcare settings. For example, it is suitable for doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Therefore, OET is a valuable English language test for healthcare professionals seeking international career and study opportunities
The OET has four sub-tests: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section assesses English skills in a healthcare context. In addition, the test uses realistic medical scenarios to assess professional communication. As a result, candidates can demonstrate their ability to use English in healthcare settings. OET scores range from A to E, with A being the highest grade. Therefore, the test provides a clear measure of communication skills needed for healthcare professionals
Sub-tests to complete
Total exam duration
Recommended prep. time
Minimum grade required
The Four Sub Tests
Three parts: a healthcare professional–patient consultation, a lecture or talk, and patient interviews. All in nursing contexts.
-> Listen for key clinical terms — symptoms, treatments, instructions.
-> Practice with authentic medical podcast recordings.
->Predict answers before the audio starts using context clues
-> Practice gap-filling while listening in real time.
Three texts from healthcare journals, guidelines, or patient information leaflets. Multiple question types, including matching, true/false, and short answer.
-> Skim headings first to map the whole text quickly.
-> Read questions before the passage for targeted scanning.
-> Watch for synonyms and paraphrased answers in texts.
-> Practice with nursing journals (e.g., The Lancet, BMJ).
Write a referral letter (180–200 words) based on case notes. Audience is typically another healthcare professional — formal, concise, accurate.
-> Use the standard letter structure: opening, body, closing.
-> Include only clinically relevant details from the notes.
-> Avoid copying case notes verbatim — paraphrase professionally.
-> Practice transforming bullet-point notes into flowing prose.
Two role-plays with an interlocutor. You play the nurse; they play the patient or career. Scenarios involve explaining, reassuring, or gathering information.
-> Use empathetic language and active listening phrases.
-> Avoid overly clinical jargon — adapt language to the patient’s level.
-> Practice turn-taking and smooth conversation management.
-> Record yourself to spot hesitation fillers and clarity issues.